‘Game of Thrones’ actor who played basketball for local schools remembered by friends, colleagues

On the HBO series “Game of Thrones,” he played a colossal, bearded creature named “Mag the Mighty,” a beastly looking character draped in bones who rode atop a mammoth in the fictional world created by George R.R. Martin.

Off screen, Neil Fingleton, who stood at a remarkable 7-feet, 7-inches tall, was more of a gentle soul, his physical presence overshadowed by his boisterous personality, sharp wit, and compassion for those around him.

“I’m a better guy for having had him and having known him, and having had him as a part of my life,” said J.P. Ricciardi, who coached Fingleton in basketball at Holy Name Central Catholic Junior-Senior High School. “He touched a lot of people.”